Question 1

Who is Dr. Vinod Singaravelu?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Singaravelu is a GMC-registered Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. He trained through the Oxford Deanery specialisation programme and holds qualifications including MBBS, MRCPsych, and AST (PG Cert. Tavistock). He also serves as Lead NHS Consultant Psychiatrist for Buckinghamshire CAMHS Eating Disorder Service.

Question 2

What age group does Dr. Singaravelu see privately?

Accepted Answer

He primarily works with children and adolescents aged 6–18, and coaching/mentoring are available for all ages. Please enquire if you are unsure.

Question 3

Is this an NHS or private service?

Accepted Answer

The private practice is entirely separate from Dr. Singaravelu's NHS role. Private appointments are available with minimal waiting times, compared to often lengthy NHS pathways. Self-referrals and professional referrals are both welcome.

Question 4

Do I need a GP referral to book?

Accepted Answer

No — you can self-refer directly. However, it is helpful if you can share any relevant medical history, school reports, or previous assessments. GP referral letters are also welcome and can help provide clinical background. We always write to your GP following the referral and the appointment, so would need your consent to do so.

Question 5

Are appointments face-to-face or remote?

Accepted Answer

Both options are available. Appointments can be held in person or via secure video call. Remote appointments are available UK-wide, and flexible after-school slots can be arranged.

Question 6

How long is the waiting time?

Accepted Answer

Private appointments are typically available within a few weeks — significantly faster than NHS CAMHS waiting lists, which can stretch to months or years in some areas. Urgent appointment within 5 working days may be available for an additional fee.

Question 7

Can parents or carers attend the appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — family involvement is actively encouraged, particularly for younger patients. Dr. Singaravelu uses a family-centred approach and will want to hear from parents and carers as part of the assessment.

Question 8

What happens at the first appointment?

Accepted Answer

The initial consultation typically lasts 60–90 minutes and covers your history, current concerns, family background, school/work context, and any previous assessments or treatments. At the end, Dr. Singaravelu will provide initial impressions and discuss next steps.

Question 9

Can Dr. Singaravelu prescribe medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes — as a GMC-registered Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Singaravelu can prescribe and manage psychiatric medication where clinically appropriate. He takes a careful, evidence-based approach and always involves the patient and family in medication decisions.

Question 10

Will I receive a report after the assessment?

Accepted Answer

A written report summarising the assessment findings and recommendations are always provided following your appointment. Additional reports or letters outside the appointment can be provided if necessary, for a fee.

Question 11

What is the difference between psychiatrist prescribing ADHD medication and Non-medical prescriber (NMP) prescribing the medication?

Accepted Answer

A psychiatrist is a medically qualified doctor who has completed specialist training in psychiatry. They are experts in the diagnosis and medical management of ADHD and can independently assess, diagnose, prescribe, and monitor medication—while also considering co-existing conditions, physical health factors, and long-term treatment strategies.

Non-medical prescribers (NMPs), such as specialist nurses or pharmacists, are trained to prescribe within a defined scope of practice. Their role typically follows an initial assessment or diagnosis made by a psychiatrist. The key advantage of choosing a psychiatrist is the breadth and depth of medical expertise they bring.

Psychiatrists are best placed to provide comprehensive assessment, diagnostic clarity, and to manage more complex or nuanced presentations, offering holistic oversight and fully integrated ADHD care.

Question 12

What is the difference between psychiatry and therapy/counselling?

Accepted Answer

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose conditions, prescribe medication, and provide therapeutic interventions. Therapists and counsellors are trained in talking therapies but cannot prescribe. Dr. Singaravelu often recommends working alongside a therapist for the best outcomes.

Question 13

What should I do in a mental health emergency?

Accepted Answer

This private practice is not an emergency service. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 999, go to your nearest A&E, or call the Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24 hours). You can also contact the NHS urgent mental health line by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option.

Question 14

What is the difference between coaching and therapy?

Accepted Answer

Coaching focuses on building strengths, navigating life transitions, and achieving personal goals — it is not a clinical treatment for mental health conditions. Dr. Singaravelu offers resilience coaching for individuals who are broadly well but want to perform and live better. If a clinical issue emerges, he will advise accordingly.

Question 15

Who is life coaching for?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Singaravelu's coaching services are suited to young adults, parents of children with mental health difficulties, healthcare professionals experiencing burnout or life transitions, and those interested in resilience, relationships, or financial wellbeing.

Question 16

Is health insurance accepted?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dr. Vinod Singaravelu is a recognised psychiatrist by Vitality and WPA insurance. Please contact your insurer to confirm coverage and obtain pre-authorisation before booking.

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